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Mancini backs Balotelli to be 'one of best players'

Roberto Mancini, left, says Mario Balotelli is like one of his children. Photo: PA Wire

Roberto Mancini knows Mario Balotelli's departure could harm Manchester City's title hopes but believes the move to AC Milan is what the forward needs.

The 22-year-old Italian will have a medical with the Serie A giants on Wednesday as he prepares to return to his homeland after two and a half years in the north west. The move will cost Milan around £20million and Mancini is aware of the adverse affect it could have on his side's chances of retaining the title.

"It is difficult because I lost one important striker and that could be important in the next 14 games," Mancini said.

"But it is important for Mario - to be back in Italy, back with his family and to play for Milan. Milan started to talk to Manchester City in the last two days and they are very close. This is for Mario because we love Mario and he deserves to have this chance."

The move will end a remarkable stay at the Etihad Stadium, which saw almost as many headlines for off-field incidents as success on it.

Through most of the controversy, Mancini has stood by a player to whom he has paid special attention since they were together at Inter Milan.

Asked if Balotelli has become too hard to manage, Mancini said: "No, no, no, not for me. For me, Mario was like another of my children. Mario is this but you can be upset with him sometimes.

"The club told me they had this from Milan. I spoke with Mario and I think he wanted this. I think for him after three years in England to come back to Italy will be good for him."

Mancini believes Balotelli has done "very well" in his time with City, but conceded this season has proved more difficult. That said, the City boss believes he can become one of the best players in the world.

"We are also so sad because Mario was an important player for us," Mancini added. "He is a fantastic player but I think for him this could an important chance to go back to Italy and play for another top club like Milan. I hope he can continue to improve because he can become one of the world's best players."